National Private Pilot Licence/Private Pilot Licence - Aeroplane

What is it?

NPPL/PPL, which stands for National/Private Pilot Licence gives you the privilege to fly as a pilot in command for recreational purposes but it does not entitle you to fly commercially. With further training, the PPL licence is the first steppingstone to the commercial licence, where as the NPPL is perfect for those that only want to fly around the UK with no dreams of flying commercially.

The NPPL can be converted to a PPL very easily should your plans change, and it can even be changed at any point throughout your training so, if unsure its worth starting on an NPPL course and swapping down the line if necessary.

We recommend training on on a Piper PA28 Warrior or our Cessna 172. However, for those that are after a more powerful and technically advanced aircraft we do also offer the course on a Cirrus SR20. The course can be spread over a timescale to suit you, with most people flying one or two times per week which achieves the licence within a year or two. However, if you are looking for a more intensive approach we offer an accelerated program, more information can be found here.

How long is it valid for?

The NPPL/PPL is valid for life, however your Single Engine Piston Rating (SEP) needs to be revalidated every 2 years.

Training Requirements

Our approved course of training consists of flight exercises covering everything from basic handling to navigation and emergencies. To apply for your NPPL you must complete at least 32 hours flight time as a pilot of aeroplanes, or 40 hours for the PPL.

This must include:

Dual flight instruction as required to pass the licence skill test

10 hours of supervised solo flight time, including at least 5 hours of solo navigation including a qualifying cross country.

The qualifying cross country flight must be at least 150 nautical miles in distance, landing at two different airfields.  Note that whilst the minimum total time required is 32/40 hours, students will often take a little longer, typically 45 – 65 hours, to complete their training.

Credits towards the issue of a NPPL/PPL are available, based on previous flight experience or qualifications, such as previous training flights, experience in motor gliders, microlights and the like.

Before you can complete the Pilot Licence, you must satisfy the following requirements:

Hold at least a valid Class 2 or Class 1 medical.

Pass all of the required theoretical examinations.

Hold a Radio Telephony Licence

Applicant must be over the age of 17 (but may begin the course earlier at age 14)

Course Syllabus

The course consists of 19 training exercises, which are broken down into three sections: General Handling, Navigation and Instrument Flying.

Theoretical Exams

Each applicant must complete and successfully pass the written exams as laid down by the CAA in the following subjects:

Air law

Operational Procedures

Human Performance and Limitations

Navigation and Radio Aids

Flight Planning and Performance

Meteorology

Aircraft General Knowledge

Principles of Flight

Communications

Students are required to prepare for their ground exams by self-study, additional ground school is available on one-to-one basis with an instructor.

Skills Test

One you have completed all your flight exercises and all the theoretical exams passed, you are ready for the flight skills test with a CAA Authorised Examiner. The skills test examines your navigation and general handling abilities. Don’t worry you will be well practised and fully ready when time comes!

For more information visit our FAQ section or get in touch with us.

To book your training please get in touch on  01202 590800 or [email protected].